Wigworm, also known as ringworm, is a fungal infection that attacks the skin and fingernails. The fungus is from the same family of fungi responsible for athlete's foot. The fungus gets its name from the distinctive round, rash on infected areas. The fungus thrives in warm, dark, moist places --- such as under wigs. When the fungus attacks the scalp, it can result in hair loss in the area of infection. To restore hair growth, you first need to clear up the infection then apply a scalp treatment to stimulate growth.
Step 1
Consult your physician. In some cases, you can treat wigworm with an over-the-counter antifungal treatment. More severe cases may need prescription medication. Have your doctor determine if an over-the-counter remedy will suffice. Whether over-the-counter or prescription, use the treatment as directed.
Step 2
Throw away the infected wigs. Ringworm is contagious and can live on surfaces for several months and washing the wig may not remove the fungus. If you keep, and continue wearing, the infected wig, you will reinfect yourself.
Step 3
Stop wearing wigs for a while. The fungus thrives in dark, moist places. Going wigless allows proper air circulation and speeds healing. If you must wear a wig, limit the amount of time you wear it.
Step 4
Avoid scratching or picking at the rash. Scratching may cause open sores on the scalp, which can lead to scarring. Scratching can also spread the infection to other areas of your scalp.
Stimulating Growth
Step 1
Fill a 16-oz. squeeze bottle with avocado oil. Use sesame oil if your hair is oily. Leave one-quarter inch of space at the top of the bottle.
Step 2
Add 10 drops of tea tree, 10 drops of eucalyptus, five drops of peppermint and five drops of rosemary essential oils to the oil bottle.
Step 3
Pierce the vitamin E capsule with a pin and squeeze the contents into the oil bottle. Cover and shake the bottle to blend the oils.
Step 4
Squeeze a dime-sized portion of oil into your hands. Massage the oil into your scalp, each night, for 20 minutes before bed. Use more oil for thicker hair. Rinse any residual oil from your hair in the morning.
Tips and Warnings
- Store the oil in a cool, dry place for up to one year.
Things You'll Need
- 16 oz. plastic squeeze bottle
- Avocado or sesame oil
- Tea tree essential oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Peppermint essential oil
- Rosemary essential oil
- Vitamin E capsule
References
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy";Valerie Ann Worwood;1991
- Mayo Clinic: Ringworm Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Medline Plus: Tinea Capitis
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